Jets WR Jermaine Kearse's last catch equals big bonus

Despite being down three scores, Jermaine Kearse secured an important reception on the Jets’ final drive of the season.

The wide receiver’s fifth and final reception in Sunday’s loss to the Patriots was his 65th of the season. A sizeable number in and of itself, the catch triggered an even bigger bonus.

That catch provided Kearse with an extra $100,000, raising his incentive-based earnings from $200,000 to $300,000.

“I wasn’t gonna let go of that ball,” Kearse joked when speaking to reporters Monday. He admitted he was aware of the bonus in play.

Coming over in a trade that sent Sheldon Richardson to the Seahawks in exchange for him and a second round pick, Kearse put in his best season as a pro in his first year with the Jets. The 27-year-old set career highs in receptions and yards (810) while tying his career-high with five touchdowns

Kearse has one year and $5 million unguaranteed left on his deal, a more than fair deal for the Jets. In 2018, Kearse will be a strong veteran presence in a young Jets receiving core that will continue to grow around him, Robby Anderson and a healthy Quincy Enunwa.

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